Croatians are casting off a difficult past and embracing a brand new future as one of Europe's hottest tourist destinations. With miles of breathtaking beaches, a shoreline dotted with medieval castles and some of the most welcoming natives around, Croatia lures travelers who are thirsty for a unique spot. Small villages house traditional distilleries, where wine is still pressed by hand, and ancient cities pulse with drink, song and merriment. Behind fortress walls, homemade grappa and maraska flow, street performers sing, and everybody celebrates another glorious night on the shores of the Adriatic Sea in beautiful Croatia.

• Zane Lamprey
• Stephen McKenna